Ontario Launches New Regional Economic Immigration Pilot for 2025

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has officially announced the launch of a new Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program. This initiative, effective from January 2, 2025, to December 31, 2025, aims to attract up to 800 skilled immigrants to address critical labor shortages in Ontario’s rural and northern communities.

Participating Regions

The REDI pilot program targets the following four regions:

• Lanark County
• Leeds and Grenville
• Sarnia-Lambton
• Thunder Bay

Each region will be allocated 200 additional provincial nominations through the OINP’s Employer Job Offer category, enabling employers in these communities to recruit skilled workers for in-demand roles.

How the REDI Pilot Program Works

The REDI pilot will operate through the OINP’s Employer Job Offer category, focusing on three streams:

1. Foreign Worker Stream
2. International Student Stream
3. In-Demand Skills Stream

Employers in the participating regions can nominate candidates for these streams, helping to address labor shortages in industries such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades, including construction.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify under the REDI pilot program, applicants must meet the requirements of one of the OINP’s Employer Job Offer streams and secure a valid job offer from an employer in one of the pilot regions.

General Requirements for All Streams:

• Intent to reside in Ontario.
• Licensing or authorization to practice if the role is in a regulated profession.

Stream-Specific Requirements:

1. Foreign Worker Stream:

• Full-time, permanent job offer in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
• Minimum wage must meet or exceed the industry average in Ontario.
• At least two years of work experience in the past five years in the same occupation as the job offer.

2. International Student Stream:

• Full-time, permanent job offer in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
• Application must be submitted within two years of completing a post-secondary education program.

3. In-Demand Skills Stream:

• Full-time, permanent job offer in an eligible occupation.
• Minimum wage must meet or exceed the industry average in Ontario.
• At least nine months of work experience.
• High school diploma or higher.
• CLB 4 or above in English or French.

Background on REDI

The REDI pilot builds on the success of the OINP’s 2020 Regional Pilot, which allocated 300 additional provincial nominations to areas like Chatham-Kent, Cornwall, and Belleville/Quinte West. The previous program successfully reached its allocation and was deemed a significant contributor to addressing local labor shortages.

According to the OINP, enabling skilled immigrants to work in their fields of expertise could add up to $100 billion to Ontario’s GDP over the next five years.

To complement the REDI pilot program, Ontario has committed $100 million in 2024–2025 to enhance settlement and employment services for newcomers. This funding will support:

• Language training in English or French.
• Job-ready programs to help newcomers integrate into the workforce.
• Resources to connect immigrants with job opportunities in their communities.

Why REDI Special?

The REDI program is packed with benefits for people looking to settle in Ontario.

Here’s why it stands out:

1. Job Opportunities in Smaller Towns: These areas are actively looking for talent, which means less competition and more job security.
2. Quick PR Pathway: Once you’re nominated by Ontario, you can apply for Permanent Residency through the federal government, making the immigration process much faster.
3. High-Demand Fields: The program focuses on industries where skilled workers are in short supply, ensuring a solid career path for applicants.
4. Affordable Living: Rural areas in Ontario are much cheaper to live in compared to big cities, making it easier to settle and build a life.

IF YOU ARE...

• International students who have recently graduated and are looking for stable jobs in smaller towns.
• Skilled professionals in industries like healthcare, technology, or construction who want to move to Canada permanently.
• Foreign workers already in Canada who have experience in high-demand jobs and want a faster pathway to PR.

At Altec Global, we believe the REDI Pilot Program is a fantastic option for individuals who are ready to take the next step in their Canadian journey.

• It’s perfect for skilled workers looking for job security in growing industries.
• It offers a clear pathway to PR through a provincial nomination.
• It’s a great fit for employers in rural regions looking to hire talent quickly.

Your Next Step: Start Your Journey Today!

At Altec Global, we understand the complexities of the Canadian immigration system and are dedicated to helping applicants overcome these obstacles. Whether you’re waiting for your PR application, navigating temporary residence delays, or seeking citizenship, our team is here to guide you through the process and help make your Canadian dream a reality.

If you’re interested in the REDI program or not sure if you qualify, Contact Altec Global today for a personalized guidance. We’ll evaluate your profile and create a personalized immigration plan just for you.

Don’t wait—programs like Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) pilot program have limited spots and fill up quickly. Take the first step to secure your future in Ontario today!